George H. Mettler

On February 15, 2013 we lost the patriarch of our family, George H. Mettler. While his family and

friends are deeply saddened, we also are blessed by the assurance that he has gone home to be with his Savior. George has left a great legacy for us all, giving his family a foundation of faith, integrity and masterful wine grape growing. He was a loyal husband, loving father, proud grandfather, enthusiastic uncle and faithful friend and he will be greatly missed.

George was born on March 14, 1943 to Emil and Frances Mettler. He was raised in Lodi on the family ranch, attended local schools and graduating from Lodi High School in 1961. While attending Delta College he started dating the love of his life, Kathy Jones whom he married in 1964. Soon after they married, George took over the family farming operation making him the fourth generation to farm on the present Harney Lane Winery property. In 1967, they welcomed their only child, Jorja, into the world. George continued farming winegrapes, cherries and corn always seeking and embracing new innovations and sustainable practices. In 1996, he welcomed his son-in-law, Kyle Lerner, into the farming business mentoring him in winegrape growing. Together they expanded the farming business and in 2006 the family moved forward in opening their own winery, Harney Lane. This has been a great joy and reward for generations of hard work. George took great pride in the success of Harney Lane and its wines and enjoyed the opportunity to share his knowledge with patrons.

George is survived by his bride of 48 years, Kathy Mettler, daughter Jorja Lerner, son-in-law Kyle Lerner, grandchildren Kirsten and Ian, his loyal companion Ranger and many family and friends.

George loved God. He loved his family. He loved great wine. He loved his dog, Ranger. Anyone that knew him knew that he loved to fish, especially with great friends. He was an avid sportsman that loved to waterski, snow ski, hunt and jeep. He loved the 49'ers through thick and thin. He was always a man of few but important words.

George led a strong and valiant fight against cancer. He fought back repeatedly not letting the disease take control of his life. Cancer is a hurtful and ugly disease that impacts so many. Because of this, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his name to American Cancer Society. Donations may also be made to his home church, Vinewood Community Church.

Committal will be private. Please join us for a Celebration of Life on February 21, 2013 at 10:30am at Vinewood Community Church, 1900 W. Vine Street, Lodi.